USRowing’s Freedom Rows program is partially funded by the US Veterans Administration for planning, development, management, and implementation of adaptive rowing activities for disabled Veterans and disabled members of the Armed Forces.

Since 2014, USRowing Freedom Rows has grown to over 30 programs nationwide. Thanks to literally hundreds of volunteers and committed USRowing Club coaches, staff and USRowing members, Freedom Rows has impacted over 2,000 veterans and their families.

Freedom Rows funds are used to purchase rowing equipment and supplies that allow our Freedom Rows teams to provide equipment adapted to accommodate individual impairments such as limb amputations, traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injuries, vision impairments and hearing loss. Dramatic strides are documented each year with the positive impact rowing has on improving the lives of our veterans dealing with post traumatic stress and traumatic brain injuries. Freedom Rows has literally saved the lives of some of our veterans through exercise and weight loss, resulting in the elimination or reduced use of drugs and alcohol, lessened depression and anxiety.

Funding is also allocated to athletes traveling to competitive events such as the San Diego Crew Classic, Head of the Charles and the World Rowing Indoor Championships. USRowing also conducts several workshops and training events for adaptive and Para sport and supports military based rowing events such as the VA’s Valor Games, Warrior Games and Invictus Games. Our own USRowing Para Team has had 3 U.S. Veterans compete at the World Championships and Paralympic Games.

If you have questions or want to know how you can be more involved with Freedom Rows, please contact me at Deb.Arenberg@USRowing.org.

As we celebrate Veterans Day, I ask that you consider donating to our 2018 Freedom Rows Rally Campaign in memory of a family or friend who has served in the Armed Forces. Please share the campaign with members of your rowing club and spread the news. We want to cast as wide a net as possible! With your help, we can encourage more veterans to enjoy the same benefits of rowing we all share, and in this season of Thanksgiving, offer our thanks for the sacrifices our veterans have made on our behalf.